Africa-Press – Kenya. Retired President Uhuru Kenyatta on Friday paid a warm and humorous tribute to his longtime friend, the late banker Frank Ireri, describing him as a man of excellence, laughter, and integrity.
Speaking during Ireri’s funeral service at the Karura Community Chapel, Uhuru remembered him as “a man who always wanted to succeed,” adding that Ireri was “full of laughter and joy” and made “every occasion a joyous one.”
Uhuru said Ireri stood out for his discipline, humility, and commitment to the success of others. “He was a man who made every interaction smooth, comfortable, and dignified,” the former president said.
Recalling moments they shared during the Covid-19 period, Uhuru narrated how Ireri remained cautious and responsible despite the restrictions on gatherings.
“There was one time, during that Covid-19 period, when we weren’t really supposed to be meeting,” he said. “Frank was wondering how we would leave State House and get across town… And I was like, as far as I’m concerned, once you leave the gate, you are in your own territory.”
Uhuru also shared a light moment about another friend who once tried to use their friendship for personal gain. “One day, a friend of mine, who we later lost, was caught by police after over-indulging in his uji na chai (alcohol),” he said to laughter.
“He called me and even handed the phone to the officer. I just pretended, ‘Hello? I can’t hear you,’ and switched off.”
He praised Ireri’s honesty and professionalism. “I am so glad that even Frank did not like those issues of mixing work with other things,” he said.
Uhuru recalled Ireri’s care for others, saying he always ensured friends got home safely after visits. “He called to confirm everyone was home,” Uhuru said, adding with a smile, “after that, they were not so willing to come back until that period was over.”
Frank Ireri, a veteran banker and former Housing Finance Managing Director, died on October 26 at Nairobi Hospital while undergoing treatment for cancer.
Mourners described him as a visionary leader, mentor, and devoted family man whose impact on Kenya’s financial sector will be remembered for years.
The former HF boss is widely credited with transforming Kenya’s mortgage market by introducing products that opened home ownership to lower-income earners.
Beyond his work at Housing Finance, Ireri also chaired the board of Habitat for Humanity Kenya, a non-governmental organisation that supports marginalised groups to access decent housing.
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